Showing papers in "Journal of The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons in 2009"

Platelet-rich plasma: current concepts and application in sports medicine.

Abstract: Platelet-rich plasma is defined as autologous blood with a concentration of platelets above baseline values. Platelet-rich plasma has been used in maxillofacial and plastic surgery since the 1990s; its use in sports medicine is growing given its potential to enhance muscle and tendon healing. In vitro studies suggest that growth factors released by platelets recruit reparative cells and may augment soft-tissue repair. Although minimal clinical evidence is currently available, the use of platelet-rich plasma has increased, given its safety as well as the availability of new devices for outpatient preparation and delivery. Its use in surgery to augment rotator cuff and Achilles tendon repair has also been reported. As the marketing of platelet-rich plasma increases, orthopaedic surgeons must be informed regarding the available preparation devices and their differences. Many controlled clinical trials are under way, but clinical use should be approached cautiously until high-level clinical evidence supporting platelet-rich plasma efficacy is available.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Abstract: The radical changes in prosthetic design made in the mid 1980s transformed the historically poorly performing reverse ball-and-socket total shoulder prosthesis into a highly successful salvage implant for pseudoparalytic, severely rotator cuff-deficient shoulders. Moving the center of rotation more medial and distal as well as implanting a large glenoid hemisphere that articulates with a humeral cup in 155 degrees of valgus are the biomechanical keys to sometimes spectacular short- to mid-term results. Use of the reverse total shoulder arthroplasty device allows salvage of injuries that previously were beyond surgical treatment. However, this technique has a complication rate approximately three times that of conventional arthroplasty. Radiographic and clinical results appear to deteriorate over time. Proper patient selection and attention to technical details are needed to reduce the currently high complication rate.

Glenoid bone deficiency in recurrent anterior shoulder instability: diagnosis and management.

Abstract: Recurrent anterior shoulder instability may result from a spectrum of overlapping, often coexistent factors, one of which is glenoid bone loss. Untreated, glenoid bone loss may lead to recurrent instability and poor patient satisfaction. Recent studies suggest that the glenoid rim is altered in up to 90% of shoulders with recurrent instability, thus underscoring the need for careful diagnosis, quantification, and preoperative evaluation. Biomechanical and clinical studies offer criteria that may be used in both primary and revision settings to judge whether shoulder stability is compromised by a bony defect. Along with patient activity level, these criteria can help guide the surgeon in selecting treatment options, which range from nonsurgical care to isolated soft-tissue repair as well as various means of bony reconstitution.

Intramedullary nailing of femoral shaft fractures: current concepts

Abstract: Intramedullary nailing is the preferred method for treating fractures of the femoral shaft. The piriformis fossa and greater trochanter are viable starting points for antegrade nailing. Alternatively, retrograde nailing may be performed. Each option has relative advantages, disadvantages, and indications. Patient positioning can affect the relative ease of intramedullary nailing and the incidence of malalignment. The timing of femoral intramedullary nailing as well as the use of reaming must be tailored to each patient to avoid systemic complications. Associated comorbidities, the body habitus, and associated injuries should be considered when determining the starting point, optimal patient positioning for nailing, whether to use reduction aids as well as which to use, and any modifications of standard technique. Intramedullary nailing of diaphyseal femur fractures provides a stable fixation construct that can be applied using indirect reduction techniques. This method yields high union rates and low complication rates when vigilance is maintained during preoperative planning, the surgical procedure, and the postoperative period.

The efficacy and duration of intra-articular corticosteroid injection for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of level I studies.

Abstract: We performed a systematic review of the current literature to determine the efficacy and duration of intra-articular corticosteroid injection in reducing pain caused by knee osteoarthritis and to determine whether the type of corticosteroid used affected these results. Following an electronic search of multiple databases and a review of reference lists from various articles, we found six trials in five papers that compared corticosteroid versus placebo and four papers that compared different corticosteroids. Results of corticosteroid compared with placebo showed both a statistically and clinically significant reduction in pain at 1 week, with an average difference between groups of 22%. Two of four trials showed triamcinolone to be more effective in pain reduction than other corticosteroids. We concluded that intra-articular corticosteroids reduce knee pain for at least 1 week and that intra-articular corticosteroid injection is a short-term treatment of a chronic problem.

Treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee (nonarthroplasty).

Abstract: The clinical practice guideline was explicitly developed to include only treatments less invasive than knee replacement (ie, arthroplasty). Patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee are to be encouraged to participate in self-management educational programs and to engage in self-care, as well as to lose weight and engage in exercise and quadriceps strengthening. The guideline recommends taping for short-term relief of pain as well as analgesics and intra-articular corticosteroids, but not glucosamine and/or chondroitin. Patients need not undergo needle lavage or arthroscopy with debridement or lavage. Patients may consider partial meniscectomy or loose body removal or realignment osteotomy, as conditions warrant. Use of a free-floating interpositional device should not be considered for symptomatic unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knee. Lateral heel wedges should not be prescribed for patients with symptomatic medial compartmental osteoarthritis of the knee. The work group was unable either to recommend or not recommend the use of braces with either valgus- or varus-directing forces for patients with medial unicompartmental osteoarthritis; the use of acupuncture or of hyaluronic acid; or osteotomy of the tibial tubercle for isolated symptomatic patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

Controversies in the Treatment of Knee Dislocations and Multiligament Reconstruction

Abstract: A systematic approach to evaluation and treatment is needed for the patient with knee dislocation. There is a paucity of high-level evidence on which to base treatment decisions. Reported controversies related to the treatment of the multiligament-injured knee include the selective use of arteriography for vascular assessment, serial physical examination with the ankle-brachial index, acute surgical treatment of all damaged structures, the selective application of preoperative and postoperative joint-spanning external fixation, arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament, simultaneous open reconstruction with repair of the posterolateral corner, reconstruction and/or repair of the posteromedial corner, and the use of allograft tissue.

Acromioclavicular joint injuries: diagnosis and management.

Abstract: Acromioclavicular joint injuries represent nearly half of all athletic shoulder injuries, often resulting from a fall onto the tip of the shoulder with the arm in adduction. Stability of this joint depends on the integrity of the acromioclavicular ligaments and capsule as well as the coracoclavicular ligaments and the trapezius and deltoid muscles. Along with clinical examination for tenderness and instability, radiographic examination is critical in the evaluation of acromioclavicular joint injuries. Nonsurgical treatment is indicated for type I and II injuries; surgery is almost always recommended for type IV, V, and VI injuries. Management of type III injuries remains controversial, with nonsurgical treatment favored in most instances and reconstruction of the acromioclavicular joint reserved for symptomatic instability. Recommended techniques for stabilization in cases of acute and late symptomatic instability include screw fixation of the coracoid process to the clavicle, coracoacromial ligament transfer, and coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction. Biomechanical studies have demonstrated that anatomic acromioclavicular joint reconstruction is the most effective treatment for persistent instability.

Pseudarthrosis of the spine.

Abstract: Pseudarthrosis is the result of failed attempted spinal fusion. This condition typically manifests with axial or radicular pain months to years after the index operation. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and imaging studies, after other causes of persistent pain are ruled out. The degree of motion seen on flexion-extension radiographs that is indicative of solid or failed fusion remains a point of controversy. Thin-cut CT scans may be more reliable than radiographs in demonstrating fusion. Metabolic factors, patient factors, use and choice of instrumentation, fusion material, and surgical technique have all been shown to influence the rate of successful fusion. Treatment of the patient with symptomatic pseudarthrosis involves a second attempt at fusion and may require an approach different from that of the index surgery as well as the use of additional instrumentation, bone graft, and osteobiologic agents.

Heterotopic ossification following traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.

Abstract: Heterotopic ossification associated with neurologic injury, or neurogenic heterotopic ossification, tends to form at major synovial joints surrounded by spastic muscles. It is commonly associated with traumatic brain or spinal cord injury and with other causes of upper motor neuron lesions. Heterotopic ossification can result in a variety of complications, including nerve impingement, joint ankylosis, complex regional pain syndrome, osteoporosis, and soft-tissue infection. The associated decline in range of motion may greatly limit activities of daily living, such as positioning and transferring and maintenance of hygiene, thereby adversely affecting quality of life. Management of heterotopic ossification is aimed at limiting its progression and maximizing function of the affected joint. Nonsurgical treatment is appropriate for early heterotopic ossification; however, surgical excision should be considered in cases of joint ankylosis or significantly decreased range of motion before complications arise. Patient selection, timing of excision, and postoperative prophylaxis are important components of proper management.

Terrible Triad Injury of the Elbow: Current Concepts

Abstract: Fracture-dislocations of the elbow remain among the most difficult injuries to manage. Historically, the combination of an elbow dislocation, a radial head fracture, and a coronoid process fracture has had a consistently poor outcome; for this reason, it is called the terrible triad. An elbow dislocation associated with a displaced fracture of the radial head and coronoid process almost always renders the elbow unstable, making surgical fixation necessary. The primary goal of surgical fixation is to stabilize the elbow to permit early motion. Recent literature has improved our understanding of elbow anatomy and biomechanics along with the pathoanatomy of this injury, thereby allowing the development of a systematic approach for treatment and rehabilitation. Advances in knowledge combined with improved implants and surgical techniques have contributed to better outcomes.

Complications of volar plate fixation for managing distal radius fractures.

Abstract: Volar locking plate fixation via open reduction and internal fixation is an increasingly accepted method for managing displaced distal radius fractures. Volar plating offers biomechanically stable fixation, allows early rehabilitation, and enables fixation of comminuted or osteopenic bone. T

Prevention of symptomatic pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty

Abstract: This clinical practice guideline is based on a systematic review of published studies on the management of adult patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR) aimed specifically at preventing symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE). The guideline emphasizes the need to assess the patient's risk for both PE and postoperative bleeding. Mechanical prophylaxis and early mobilization are recommended for all patients. Chemoprophylactic agents were evaluated using a systematic literature review. Forty-two studies met eligibility criteria, of which 23 included patients who had TKR and 25 included patients who had THR. The following statements summarize the recommendations for chemoprophylaxis: Patients at standard risk of both PE and major bleeding should be considered for aspirin, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), synthetic pentasaccharides, or warfarin with an international normalized ratio (INR) goal of < or =2.0. Patients at elevated (above standard) risk of PE and at standard risk of major bleeding should be considered for LMWH, synthetic pentasaccharides, or warfarin with an INR goal of < or =2.0. Patients at standard risk of PE and at elevated (above standard) risk of major bleeding should be considered for aspirin, warfarin with an INR goal of < or =2.0, or none. Patients at elevated (above standard) risk of both PE and major bleeding should be considered for aspirin, warfarin with an INR goal of < or =2.0, or none.

Knee injury outcomes measures.

Abstract: Outcomes measures have long been used in the assessment of knee injuries and management protocols. In the past decade, there has been a shift from clinician-based outcomes tools to the development and validation of patient-reported outcomes measures. General health as well as disease- and medical condition-specific outcomes measures have been so modified. The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form is the most commonly used general health measure in orthopaedics. Joint-specific measures include the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Form. The Lysholm Knee Scale and the Cincinnati Knee Rating Scale continue to be popular, especially for the assessment of ligamentous injuries. The ACL Quality of Life score is a disease-specific, patient-reported outcomes measure of anterior cruciate ligament deficiency. The historically used Tegner activity level scale and the recently developed Marx activity level scale are used in conjunction with these outcomes measures to make possible a global assessment of recovery from knee injuries and clinician interventions.

Timing of fracture fixation in multitrauma patients: the role of early total care and damage control surgery.

Abstract: The optimal timing of surgical stabilization of fractures in the multitrauma patient is controversial. There are advantages to early definitive surgery for most patients. Early temporary fixation using external fixators, followed by definitive fixation (ie, the damage control approach), may increase the chance for survival in a subset of patients with severe multisystem injuries. Improved understanding of the pathophysiology of trauma has led to a greater ability to identify patients who would benefit from damage control surgery. A patient is classified as physiologically stable, unstable, borderline, or in extremis. The stable patient can undergo fracture surgery as necessary. An unstable patient should be resuscitated and adequately stabilized before receiving definitive orthopaedic care. The decision whether to perform initial temporary or definitive fixation in the borderline patient is individualized based on the clinical condition. In patients presenting in extremis, life-saving measures are pivotal, followed by a damage control approach to their injuries.

Treatment of pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures.

Abstract: Methods of treating pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures are dictated by patient age, fracture characteristics, and family social situation. The recent trend has been away from nonsurgical treatment and toward surgical stabilization. The clinical practice guideline on pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures was undertaken to determine the best evidence regarding a number of different options for surgical stabilization. The recommendations address treatments that include Pavlik harness, spica casts, flexible intramedullary nailing, rigid trochanteric entry nailing, submuscular plating, and pain management. The guideline authors conclude that controversy and lack of conclusive evidence remain regarding the different treatment options for pediatric femur fractures and that the quality of scientific evidence could be improved for the revised guideline.

Metal-on-metal bearing surfaces.

Abstract: Metal-on-metal bearing couples remain a popular option in total hip arthroplasty and are the only currently available option for surface replacement arthroplasty. In general, the intermediate-term clinical performance of metal-on-metal bearings has been favorable. There are, however, lingering concerns about the biologic consequences of metal release from these bearings in terms of both local tissue effects, including delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions in a subset of patients, and potential systemic effects as a consequence of chronic elevations in serum cobalt and chromium content. Advances in the understanding of the operant wear mechanisms in these bearings provide strategies for reducing the burden of metal released into the periprosthetic milieu, which in turn will mitigate the concerns about the biologic response to the metal debris. Continued surveillance of patients with these bearings is warranted to determine whether metal-on-metal bearing couples provide a long-term survivorship advantage over other bearing couple options and to evaluate whether chronic elevations in the body burden of cobalt and chromium is well tolerated over the long term.

Diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Abstract: This clinical practice guideline was created to improve patient care by outlining the appropriate information-gathering and decisionmaking processes involved in managing the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. The methods used to develop this clinical practice guideline were designed to com

Meniscal tears and discoid meniscus in children: diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract: The incidence of traumatic meniscal tears in children is on the rise, likely because of increased sports participation and more accurate diagnostic modalities. The increased vascularity of the developing meniscus is believed to enable greater healing potential. Meniscal tears in children are often amenable to repair, and excellent clinical results have been reported. Knee size must be considered when determining the optimal method of repair. Discoid menisci represent a spectrum of morphologic abnormalities and instability of the lateral meniscus. Highly unstable variants often present with the classic "snapping knee syndrome," whereas stable variants may remain asymptomatic until a tear develops. Asymptomatic discoid menisci should be observed, whereas symptomatic discoid menisci are best treated with saucerization and repair. Early to midterm reports on saucerization and repair of discoid lateral meniscus in children are promising.

Soft-tissue balancing during total knee arthroplasty in the varus knee.

Abstract: Soft-tissue balancing during total knee arthroplasty is an important step in optimizing the mechanical balance of the knee joint. Softtissue contractures that result from varus coronal plane deformity can pose a difficult problem, and the surgeon should have a standard procedure for managing such situations in the operating room. Balance may be assessed intraoperatively with the use of spacer blocks, laminar spreaders, and tensioning devices as well as by placement of trial components. Techniques used to balance the varus knee during primary total knee arthroplasty include femoral component rotation, osteophyte resection, soft-tissue release, and bone resection. Flexion and extension gap balancing is crucial for long-term success and patient satisfaction.

Principles of treatment for periprosthetic femoral shaft fractures around well-fixed total hip arthroplasty.

Abstract: Postoperative periprosthetic femoral fractures around the stem of a total hip arthroplasty are increasing in frequency. To obtain optimal results, full appreciation of the clinical evaluation, classification, and modern management principles and techniques is required. Although periprosthetic femoral fracture associated with a loose stem requires complex revision arthroplasty, fractures associated with a stable femoral stem can be managed effectively with osteosynthesis principles familiar to most orthopaedic surgeons. Femoral fracture around a stable femoral stem is classified as a Vancouver type B1 fracture. The preferred treatment consists of internal fixation, following open or indirect reduction. Emerging techniques, such as percutaneous plating and the use of locking plates, have been used with increasing frequency. Preliminary results of these techniques are promising; however, further prospective comparative studies are required.

Anterior iliopsoas impingement and tendinitis after total hip arthroplasty.

Abstract: Anterior iliopsoas impingement and tendinitis is a poorly understood and likely underrecognized cause of groin pain and functional disability after total hip arthroplasty. The patient history and physical examination findings are usually only suggestive, and the symptoms frequently subtle. The diagnosis may be confirmed by one or more imaging studies, including a cross-table lateral radiograph, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasonography, in combination with a confirmatory diagnostic injection. Nonsurgical management may not resolve the problem. Surgical treatment, consisting of release or resection of the iliopsoas tendon, alone or in combination with acetabular revision for an anterior overhanging component, usually provides permanent pain relief.

Static and mobile antibiotic-impregnated cement spacers for the management of prosthetic joint infection.

Abstract: Two-stage treatment is currently the most common approach for management of an infected joint prosthesis in the United States. Static antibiotic-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate cement spacers have traditionally been used; increasingly, however, mobile or articulating spacers are being utilized. Advocates of mobile spacers have cited potential advantages, including more effective maintenance of the joint space, allowing for limited weight bearing and facilitating joint motion; possible reduction in bone loss; and local delivery of antibiotics. Because a variety of materials and construction methods is used to make knee and hip spacers, comparisons are difficult. Randomized, prospective studies are needed to determine the best spacers for total knee and total hip arthroplasties.

Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Abstract: In September 2008, the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons approved a clinical practice guideline on the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. This guideline was subsequently endorsed by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. The guideline makes nine specific recommendations: A course of nonsurgical treatment is an option in patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. Early surgery is an option with clinical evidence of median nerve denervation or when the patient so elects. Another nonsurgical treatment or surgery is suggested when the current treatment fails to resolve symptoms within 2 to 7 weeks. Sufficient evidence is not available to provide specific treatment recommendations for carpal tunnel syndrome associated with such conditions as diabetes mellitus and coexistent cervical radiculopathy. Local steroid injection or splinting is suggested before considering surgery. Oral steroids or ultrasound are options. Carpal tunnel release is recommended as treatment. Heat therapy is not among the options to be used. Surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome by complete division of the flexor retinaculum is recommended. Routine use of skin nerve preservation and epineurotomy is not suggested when carpal tunnel release is performed. Prescribing preoperative antibiotics for carpal tunnel surgery is an option. It is suggested that the wrist not be immobilized postoperatively after routine carpal tunnel surgery. It is suggested that instruments such as the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire be used to assess patient responses to carpal tunnel syndrome treatment for research.

Surgical Approaches to the Elbow

Abstract: Surgical exposures for complex injuries about the elbow are technically demanding because of the high density of neurologic, vascular, and ligamentous elements around the elbow. The posterior approaches (ie, olecranon osteotomy, triceps-reflecting, triceps-splitting, triceps-reflecting anconeus pedicle flap, paratricipital) include techniques used to navigate the area around the triceps tendon and anconeus muscle. These approaches may be extended to gain access to the entire joint. The ulnar nerve, the anterior and posterior capsules, and the coronoid process are addressed by means of a medial approach. Lateral approaches are useful in addressing pathology at the radial head, capitellum, coronoid process, and anterior and posterior capsules. These approaches may be combined to address complex pathology in the setting of fracture fixation, arthroplasty, and capsular release.

Hip fractures in children.

Abstract: Hip fractures account for <1% of all pediatric fractures. Most are caused by high-energy mechanisms, but pathologic hip fractures also occur, usually from low-energy trauma. Complications occur at a high rate because the vascular and osseous anatomy of the child's proximal femur is vulnerable to injury. Surgical options vary based on the child's age, Delbet classification type, and degree of displacement. Anatomic reduction and surgical stabilization are indicated for most displaced hip fractures. Other options include smooth-wire or screw fixation, often supplemented by spica cast immobilization in younger children, or compression screw and side plate fixation. Achievement of fracture stability is more important than preservation of the proximal femoral physis. Capsular decompression after reduction and fixation may diminish the risk of osteonecrosis. Osteonecrosis, coxa vara, premature physeal closure of the proximal femur, and nonunion are complications that account for poor outcomes.

Ceramic materials as bearing surfaces for total hip arthroplasty.

Abstract: During the past decade, advances in total hip arthroplasty component design have produced implants with reliable clinical results in regard to fixation. The foremost unresolved challenge has been the development of bearing surfaces that can withstand the higher demands of younger and more active patients. New alternative bearings with superior wear characteristics that minimize debris include ceramic-on-ceramic, metal-on-metal, and highly cross-linked polyethylenes in combination with ceramic or metal. Alumina-on-alumina ceramic bearings are extremely hard and scratch resistant and provide superior lubrication and wear resistance compared with other bearing surfaces in clinical use. Survivorship revision for any reason for the alumina ceramic bearings at 10 years was significantly higher compared with metal-on-polyethylene. Bearings currently being studied because of their encouraging wear performance in the laboratory are an alumina matrix (82% alumina, 17% zirconia, 0.3% chromium oxide), zirconium oxide, and ceramic-on-cobalt-chromium.

Shoulder arthroplasty: prosthetic options and indications.

Abstract: Glenohumeral arthropathy and failed shoulder arthroplasty can lead to debilitating pain, reduced motion and strength, and limited function. Primary osteoarthritis, posttraumatic osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cuff tear arthropathy, and osteonecrosis are common in this patient population. Shoulder arthroplasty may fail because of problems with the prosthesis, such as wear, loosening, and dislocation of the components, or because of bone and soft-tissue problems, such as glenoid arthrosis and rotator cuff tear. The disparate pathogenesis of these processes presents unique challenges to the treating surgeon and requires diagnosis-specific treatment options, whether involving hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Until recently, prosthesis options were limited to a stemmed humeral component with or without a polyethylene glenoid component. The array of prosthetic options currently available allows individualized treatment.

Management of hemorrhage in life-threatening pelvic fracture.

Abstract: Emergent life-saving treatment is required for high-energy pelvic fracture with associated hemorrhage and hemodynamic instability. Advances in prehospital, interventional, surgical, and critical care have led to increased survival rates. Pelvic binders have largely replaced military antishock trousers. The availability and precision of interventional angiography have expanded considerably. External pelvic fixation can be rapidly applied, often reduces the pelvic volume, and provides temporary fracture stabilization. Pelvic packing, popularized in Europe, is now used in certain centers in North America. The use of standardized treatment algorithms may improve decision making and patient survival rates. Active involvement of an experienced orthopaedic surgeon in the evaluation and care of these critically injured patients is essential.

Superior labral tears of the shoulder: pathogenesis, evaluation, and treatment.

Abstract: Lesions of the superior glenoid labrum and biceps anchor are a well-recognized cause of shoulder pain. Advances in shoulder arthroscopy have led to improvements in recognizing and managing superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears. Recent biomechanical studies have postulated several theories for the pathogenesis of SLAP tears in throwing athletes and the effect of these injuries on normal shoulder kinematics. Advances in soft-tissue imaging techniques have resulted in improved accuracy in diagnosing SLAP tears. However, the diagnosis of clinically relevant SLAP tears remains challenging because of the lack of specific examination findings and the frequency of concomitant shoulder injuries. Definitive diagnosis of suspected SLAP tears is confirmed on arthroscopic examination. Advances in surgical techniques have made it possible to achieve secure repair in selected patterns of injury. Recent outcomes studies have shown predictably good functional results and an acceptable rate of return to sport and/or work with arthroscopic treatment of SLAP tears.